News

Over the weekend NSW representative Alex MacFadyen competed in the Australian Judo Titles in Wollongong . The event began on Friday night with a training session at the WIN entertainment centre with the 2012 Olympic Team and past Olympic Judo champions. Alex had a great time meeting some of our greatest Olympic Judo players as well as getting photos with them and their autographs.

The junior competition took place early Monday morning. A timing mix up with the state team communications unfortunately put Alex in a very difficult position for his first bout. He had only just had the ongoing hand injury taped by the physio when he was called to the mat for an immediate fight. With no warm up, no stretching or mental preparation he was in a tough position and found himself knocked out of the Gold medal round after losing to an “Ippon” within a few short seconds of stepping onto the mat. The winner of the bout later went on to win the Silver medal.

We put this set back behind us and prepared for the Bronze medal rounds. For his second round match Alex needed a win to progress into the medals. In a great match with two very equal opponents Alex brought everything he had to the mat. Initially his West Australian opponent gained the upper hand with a “Waza-ari”. Alexander answered this not long after with a “Waza-ari” of his own, once again making the bout even. In the last few seconds of the match Alex tried for a very strong throw called a “Sasai tsuriokomi ashi” (lifting pulling leg throw) but unfortunately the West Australian was able to twist around and get a “Counter” on Alex which resulted in an “Ippon”, which is an immediate win.

We didn't bring home medals, but Alex gained a huge amount of experience and his skill level showed he was easily able to mix it up with other state competitors. Alexander can be very proud of his results in his first appearance at National level Judo and is already looking forward to trying again next year.